In Pictures: Wilmslow Scarecrow Festival

by Lisa Reeves

Friday 9th July 2010

Fri 9th Jul 2010

Over 80 scarecrows of all shapes and sizes have taken over the streets of Wilmslow this week. Bringing colour and fun to the town centre, straw creations can be found hanging out on the streets, on display in shops windows, lurking in hidden corners and even positioned high on the rooftops.

Organised by the Rotary Club of Wilmslow Dean and the members of the Wilmslow Business Group, the week long festival has transformed the town centre and received a tremendous response from local businesses, who have put a lot of hard work into creating them, and locals who have enjoyed wandering around the town spotting the various scarecrows.

Steve Kennedy, owner of Mail Boxes Etc said "The atmosphere on Water Lane has been great, with comments from the general public, old and young, and fellow businesses all being so positive.

"The general feeling is that it's an essential town item for next summer and hopefully businesses that didn't participate this year will see the benefits and join in next.

"People actually walk into the shop, asking what it's all about, commenting 'Well done', 'It's great for the town' and everyone appears to be thoroughly enjoying the Scarecrow Hunt. Not a negative word to be heard."

Ian Lloyd, owner of The Flower Shop on Water Lane, added "It has been lovely to see families out together, people smiling and taking photographers. The Scarecrow Festival has created such a lovely atmosphere."

The Scarecrows will remain on display until close of business on Saturday, so there is still plenty of time to take part in the Scarecrow Hunt. Collect a form from one of the participating outlets, easily identifiable by the posters in their windows, for the chance to win one of the great prizes, kindly donated by Sainsbury's, Hoopers and Waitrose.

Steve Morris, manager of the Wilmslow branch of Sainsbury's said "I have been bowled over by the imagination and attention to detail that businesses in Wilmslow have displayed in creating their scarecrows. Many customers have said what a brilliant idea and good fun it is. Well done to all the businesses which have taken part and best of luck for the judging."

The winners of 1st, 2nd & 3rd places will be on display at the Wilmslow Show on Sunday, 11th July, at the Rotary stand.